Rape and murder cases involving child victims and defendants are to be prioritised by the legal system. 

This protocol will be unveiled today at the Criminal Courts of Justice, having been drafted by a working group set up in April 2024, chaired by Judge Caroline Biggs. 

It recognises children’s vulnerability and that delays in the criminal justice system can be detrimental to child victims and child defendants.

Main entrance to the Criminal Courts of Justice in Dublin.

From now on, in rape and murder cases involving victims and defendants under 18-years-old, reduced timelines for a case to go to trial should be adhered to. 

The expedited timeline would be around 52 weeks and apply to cases in the Central Criminal Courts of Justice.

Main image: A barrister holding a wig. Picture by: PA Wire/PA Images